UPSKILLING: innovative support for students and university staff

At MANS, we are carrying out a groundbreaking project called "UPSKILLING". Its main objective is to support students and teaching staff in developing their competences and adapting them to the dynamically changing needs of the labour market. The project includes both the modernisation of curricula and the development of practical skills, with a view to enhancing graduates' opportunities on the national and European market. Inauguration Conference — Cooperation for the Future The official launch of the "UPSKILLING" project was an opportunity to hold a training conference on "Cooperation between universities, schools, entrepreneurs and professional orientation as a response to contemporary needs and challenges of companies and the labour market". The event was attended by representatives of universities, schools and entrepreneurs. It was an excellent space for sharing experiences, getting new contacts and discussing the challenges of adapting education to the needs of the labour market. During the conference, key issues related to employers' expectations and the role of universities and schools in their implementation were raised. The event was preceded by a press briefing, during which the Rector of the International Academy of Applied Sciences in Łomża, Dr. inż. Ireneusz Żuchowski presented the main partners and coordinators of the project. Among them were Marek Chmielnicki, project specialist and representatives of CERTES sp. z o.o. — Edyta Świderska, Managing Director, and Aneta Łozak, Project Manager. Main Objectives of the "UPSKILLING" Programme The “UPSKILLING” project is a comprehensive educational support involving students of engineering disciplines such as agriculture, logistics and construction. Its aim is to develop key competences and to shape the educational and professional path. The project provides for the following actions: Modification of curricula — adapting teaching content to the needs of the labour market. Additional practical classes — workshops and courses developing practical professional skills. Paid national and foreign internships — the possibility of gaining professional experience in Polish and European companies. The development of key skills — communication, team management, negotiation, conflict resolution, stress management and influence techniques. Language courses — free English courses to obtain certificates confirming your language skills at a certain level. Cooperation with CERTES sp. z o.o. The strategic partner of the "UPSKILLING" project is CERTES sp. z o.o., known for its extensive experience in the implementation of educational projects and the effective acquisition of funds from the National Centre for Research and Development and EU funds. Thanks to cooperation with CERTES, the International Academy of Applied Sciences in Łomża receives support in organizing training and raising funds for the development of education. Support for Middle Schools and their Students The “UPSKILLING” project is not limited to university students only. An important element of the initiative is the support of pupils of secondary schools from the region and neighbouring voivodships such as Mazowieckie, Pomeranian and Warmia-Masurian. The planned activities include workshops with vocational pre-orientation and programmes to guide young people towards informed choices of the educational and professional path. At least 450 students will be supported, which underlines the regional scope of the project. Development perspective up to 2027 The "UPSKILLING" project will be implemented by the end of 2027. Its funding is provided by the European Union under the European Funds for Social Development programme, priority FERS.01.00 FERS.01.05. Thanks to this investment, the International Academy of Applied Sciences in Łomża strengthens its position as a modern university that actively responds to labour market needs and supports the development of student and student competences. The "UPSKILLING" project is a step towards modern education that responds to the needs of a modern knowledge-based economy.

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